3 Body Language Signals That Warn You About Dog Bites Before They Happen

Even after the ban on owning pit bulls in 2005, dog bites persist in North York. There are far less reports than there used to be, but every week the SPCA in Ontario gets call about dog-on-dog or dog-to-human bites. Attacks range from mild to severe, but they keep plenty of people calling personal injury law firms. North York has its fair share of dog owners, and so pedestrians, especially children, are at risk of getting bit on a daily basis. Fortunately, most bites are preventable if you know how to read the body language of dogs.

Tense, Stiff Body Language

If a dog attacks you, you’re well within your rights to contact an injury lawyer. North York has several firms like ours that specialize in personal injury. Overall, though, it’s better to prevent a bite before it happens. If you see a dog looking very tense and alert, with its ears pinned back and its tail completely stiff, stay away. This dog feels threatened and is trying to assert its personal space.

Crying, Flinching, or Cowering

These body signal are especially common when children approach dogs by running up to them while shouting or making crazy movements. It’s easy for dogs to get scared by over-excited children, and even a good-natured dog can lash out when it’s scared. Teach kids to approach dogs calmly if you want to avoid calling a personal injury lawyer. North York has plenty of areas where kids and dogs can have close calls, so teach kids how to behave ahead of time.

Laying Down, No Tail Wagging, Tense Muscles

More docile dogs may try to lay down by their owners to get some personal space. Don’t pursue a dog that isn’t actively trying to get attention from you, or it may see you as threatening and snap at you.